GDM Megaron, Heraklion

Pros

• This landmark 1925 building is intricately connected to a century of history in Heraklion.
• The central location is convenient, just off the waterfront and a five-minute stroll from the Venetian Port and Old Town.
• The contemporary rooms combine sleek, understated decor with high ceilings, French doors, and original Juliet balconies.
• Guests can enjoy fantastic views of the Venetian fortress, sea, and city from the rooftop pool and lounge area. 
• The hotel is famous for its warm hospitality and personalized service. 

Cons

• The prime location means that it can get a bit loud in the high season, even with the soundproofed windows; light sleepers may prefer the quieter city-view rooms.
• The rooftop pool is unheated and seasonal, and it can get quite crowded in the warmer months.
• While generally safe, the area around the hotel feels a bit rundown.

Authenticity

The history of this landmark-classified hotel dates back to the mid-1920s. First built as a citrus factory, the building's functions changed over time, but it remained an important fixture of the city—this was the first building in Crete to have an elevator, and it served as a meeting point for Heraklion's most influential politicians and tastemakers. You'll still feel this sense of heritage and grandeur despite the hotel's contemporary interiors, particularly in the elegant lobby, where you'll be greeted with plush rugs, porcelain vases, historic maps of Heraklion, and warm, attentive staff (led by long-time manager Evi).

Location

The hotel overlooks Heraklion's waterfront, just to the east of the Old Town and the Venetian Port. The surroundings feel a little uninspiring (near the more modern port and its parking lots), but you'll be within easy walking distance of most city landmarks and historic sites. Stroll a few minutes west to the Venetian Port and its famous fortress, or wander through the Old Town to reach Lions Square in under 10 minutes. It's a 10-minute drive to the Heraklion International Airport, and the hotel offers free, private parking for guests (though space is limited).

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 58 air-conditioned rooms and suites vary in size and view (city or sea), but they all share an understated, contemporary look with high ceilings, warm wood floors, ceramic pendant lamps, and touches of navy velvet. Original French doors open out onto small, iron Juliet balconies, and bathrooms are modern and spacious, with robes, slippers, and Korres toiletries. Executive units are the most compact; XL Corner options offer more space, while VIP rooms boast the best Venetian fortress and port views.

Amenities

The hotel's rooftop terrace is the place to be for dazzling views of the Venetian port and the Rocco a Mare fortress, plus a seasonal plunge pool, chairs, umbrellas, and a stylish cocktail bar open during warmer weather. A level down, you'll find a small fitness room and spa, with a steam room, sauna, massage pool, and treatment rooms. The on-site Plaza Café serves elevated Cretan fare in an inviting space with views of the port—including the hotel's legendary breakfast, an opulent buffet that includes fresh-squeezed orange juice, beautifully presented cakes, and traditional Cretan savory dishes like Cretan eggs and fennel pie.

Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome here, but the hotel doesn't offer much in the way of family-friendly amenities. Babies under two years can stay free with adults, but children over age two are charged a child rate and a fee for an extra bed (if necessary). Interconnecting room options are the best fit for families, and the hotel is stroller-accessible, with elevators to reach the upper floors.